back-door pilot

A 'back-door pilot' is a unique method used in television to test new show concepts within existing series, without committing to a standalone pilot episode.

πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ US Voice:
πŸ‡¬πŸ‡§ UK Voice:

Definition

B2Television Production

(technical)An episode or miniseries within an existing show that tests the viability of a new series concept.

Example

  • The character introduced in last night's episode is part of a back-door pilot for a potential spin-off series.
  • Producers often use a back-door pilot to gauge audience interest before committing to a full season.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "back-door pilot":

back door